Surgical device multi-socket, electrosurgical high-frequency generator, electrosurgical device plug and electrosurgical system

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a surgical device multi-socket for a high-frequency generator for connecting an electrosurgical instrument, an electrosurgical high-frequency generator, an electrosurgical device connector, and an electrosurgical system. Furthermore, the invention relates to a cable for an electrosurgical instrument and an electrosurgical instrument.

[0002] Electrosurgical instruments are used in surgery, particularly for monopolar or bipolar cutting and / or coagulation of biological tissue. The energy for the electrosurgical instrument is supplied by a high-frequency (HF) generator. Various electrosurgical instruments can be connected to such a high-frequency generator, each providing the same or different functionalities for the user. The connected electrosurgical instruments are powered by the high-frequency generator with high-frequency energy.

[0003] To enable the connection of electrosurgical instruments to the high-frequency generator, currently used high-frequency generators generally offer different sockets for the various plugs of electrosurgical instruments. Therefore, in practice, it is common for high-frequency generators to have different sockets, thus eliminating the need for adapters for individual electrosurgical instruments. Surgical device connector systems are known, for example, from DE 10 2007 061 483 A1. In these known device connector systems, openings, particularly for contact pins, are provided on the socket, thereby expanding the functionality of the socket, for example, through keying openings. This allows for the transmission of data in addition to power.

[0004] US-A-5 817 092 discloses a surgical instrument multi-socket according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0005] The existing sockets, devices and methods for connecting electrosurgical instruments to high-frequency generators offer various advantages, but further improvements are desirable.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a surgical device multi-socket for a high-frequency generator for connecting an electrosurgical instrument, an electrosurgical high-frequency generator, an electrosurgical device connector, and an electrosurgical system, which are improved compared to existing sockets, devices, and methods. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a surgical device multi-socket for a high-frequency generator for connecting an electrosurgical instrument, an electrosurgical high-frequency generator, an electrosurgical device connector, and an electrosurgical system, which increase the compatibility of the devices used and / or ensure an improved safety situation before, during, and after a surgical procedure.

[0007] This problem is solved according to a first aspect of the invention by a surgical device multiple socket according to claim 1.

[0008] The surgical instrument multi-socket according to the invention is based, among other things, on the understanding that a large number of different electrosurgical instruments and, moreover, different connectors for these electrosurgical instruments are used in practice. This results in the high-frequency generators being provided with a large number of different sockets, so that the electrosurgical instruments, having different connectors, can be connected to the high-frequency generator. Consequently, a reduction in the size of the high-frequency generators is only possible to a limited extent, since a considerable area of ​​the high-frequency generator must be reserved for providing the sockets.In particular, the front and side surfaces of the high-frequency generator that are accessible to the user can only be reduced in size to a limited extent or used for other purposes, such as displays or similar, because the provision of the various sockets takes up a lot of space.

[0009] Reducing this surface area is only possible by limiting the compatibility of the high-frequency generator, specifically by reducing the number of available sockets. However, this results in fewer electrosurgical instruments being able to be connected to the generator. In particular, it restricts the user's freedom to choose an instrument manufacturer, as manufacturers typically focus on a specific connector for their electrosurgical instruments. Another way to increase compatibility is to provide adapters, but their use in surgical practice is associated with numerous disadvantages, such as the risk of losing an adapter, using an unsuitable one for a specific electrosurgical instrument, or the adapter's limitation of data transmission.

[0010] By combining a coaxial socket element with at least one contact opening, the surgical device multi-socket allows the connection of both coaxial plugs and plugs with two contact pins, the distance between which corresponds to the distance between the inner opening of the coaxial socket element and the contact opening. Thus, the surgical device multi-socket enables the combination of two previously separate sockets and therefore the use of two different plugs in one and the same socket. The insertion of different plugs into the surgical device multi-socket preferably does not occur simultaneously, but rather only when a particular plug is needed, with the unused plug preferably being removed from the surgical device multi-socket beforehand.

[0011] In this application, the respective plug to be inserted into the surgical device's multi-socket is preferably a component of an electrosurgical instrument, enabling its connection to a high-frequency generator. The surgical device's multi-socket includes, among other things, a coaxial socket, which is specifically designed to receive a coaxial plug element. A coaxial socket serves, in particular, to receive a coaxial cable and to form a detachable connection between one end of the cable, to which a coaxial plug element is attached, and the coaxial socket.

[0012] The coaxial bushing comprises an inner and an outer sleeve, which are arranged coaxially and preferably nested within one another. The outer diameter of the inner sleeve is preferably smaller than the inner diameter of the outer sleeve. The inner diameter of the outer sleeve is preferably larger than the outer diameter of the inner sleeve. The outer diameter of the outer sleeve is preferably twice the size of the outer diameter of the inner sleeve. Furthermore, the end faces of the two sleeves at the proximal end of the coaxial bushing preferably lie substantially in a common plane.

[0013] An outer, annular coaxial bushing opening is formed between the inner and outer sleeves. An inner coaxial bushing opening is formed inside the inner sleeve.

[0014] The coaxial socket is designed to receive a coaxial plug element, which has an inner contact pin and an outer contact ring. The outer contact ring has an inner recess in which the inner contact pin is located. The outer contact ring thus has the geometry of a sleeve, either completely or partially along its axial extent. Therefore, with the correct selection of the individual dimensions, a coaxial connection between the coaxial socket and the coaxial plug element is possible by inserting the inner contact pin into the inner opening of the coaxial socket and the outer contact ring into the outer, annular opening of the coaxial socket. The resulting coaxial connection offers the advantages of very low electromagnetic interference and radiation, as well as good electrical shielding.Furthermore, it is possible to use the coaxial socket as a contact opening by inserting a contact pin into the inner coaxial socket opening.

[0015] The surgical device multi-socket further comprises the first contact opening and / or the second contact opening, each configured to receive a contact pin. The first and / or second contact opening preferably has a circular cross-section. Alternatively, and preferably, the first and / or second contact opening has an oval or rectangular cross-section, with the corresponding contact pins then preferably also having such a geometry.

[0016] The first and / or second contact opening has a terminal end into which a contact pin can be inserted. At this terminal end, the first and / or second contact opening has a defined diameter.

[0017] According to the invention, the coaxial socket and the first and / or second contact opening are arranged on a single surgical device multi-socket. This arrangement allows different plugs to be connected to the multi-socket. The plugs can differ, for example, in the number and / or type and / or spacing of the contact elements, such as contact pins and / or contact rings. For example, the plugs can differ with respect to the contact elements for the coaxial plug element. Furthermore, the plugs can differ with respect to the contact pins designed to be inserted into the first and / or second contact opening, for example, with respect to diameter and / or geometry.

[0018] The coaxial socket in the surgical device multi-socket according to the invention has two functions. Firstly, it receives a coaxial plug element. Secondly, it receives a standard contact pin in the inner coaxial socket opening formed by the inner sleeve. This allows a plug with two contact pins to be inserted into the surgical device multi-socket such that one contact pin engages in the inner coaxial socket opening and the other contact pin engages in one of the contact openings. This dual use of the coaxial socket reduces the total number of required contact openings in the surgical device multi-socket and optimizes space utilization and compatibility.

[0019] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous that the arrangement of the contact opening(s) and the coaxial socket according to the invention reduces the risk posed by improperly connected electrosurgical instruments. This is particularly due to the fact that only a single electrosurgical instrument can be connected to the multi-socket surgical device according to the invention. An unintentional simultaneous connection of potentially incompatible devices, which could endanger staff and / or patients, can thus be prevented. This also ensures that when changing instruments, a new instrument can only be put into operation once the previous instrument has been safely disconnected from the high-frequency generator, further increasing safety for staff and patients.Additional checks to ensure that no other, potentially incompatible devices are connected can be omitted with high-frequency generators using the surgical device multi-socket, thus reducing treatment times.

[0020] A further advantage has been found to be that the arrangement of the coaxial socket and the first and / or second contact opening in or on the surgical device's multi-socket according to the invention makes it possible to connect a large number of different electrosurgical instruments. This enables the user to choose from a wide variety of electrosurgical instruments available on the market. In a preferred embodiment of the surgical device's multi-socket, it includes a positioning opening designed to receive a positioning pin. Preferably, the positioning opening generally does not have an electrical function or a primary electrical function, but serves primarily to ensure the secure and correct positioning of the plug in the desired position within the surgical device's multi-socket.Especially with plugs that would allow more than one possible positioning in the socket without a positioning pin, a positioning pin and a corresponding positioning opening are advantageous in order to achieve a unique positioning of the plug in the surgical device multi-socket.

[0021] Along an axial extent, the cross-section of the positioning opening is preferably substantially circular. It is also possible for the positioning opening to have an oval or rectangular cross-section, with a rectangular and / or quadrilateral cross-section being particularly preferred.

[0022] The dimensions of this cross-section, orthogonal to a longitudinal central axis—for example, the diameter in the case of a circular opening or the edge dimensions in the case of a rectangular geometry—are preferably constant along the axial extent of the positioning opening. However, these dimensions can also vary along the axial extent of the positioning opening, for example, to decrease towards the interior of the surgical device's multi-socket. Such a design offers the possibility of further improving the positioning function of the positioning opening.

[0023] Providing a positioning opening and a corresponding positioning pin on a connector can reduce wear on the electrical contacts, in this case the coaxial socket and the first and / or second contact opening.

[0024] The invention provides that the coaxial socket, the first contact opening, and the second contact opening are arranged such that a straight line connects the centers of the coaxial socket, the first contact opening, and the second contact opening. This embodiment therefore provides that the coaxial socket and the contact opening(s) are aligned. The fact that the line connects the centers of the coaxial socket and the first and second contact openings clearly demonstrates that these openings are aligned. Such an arrangement particularly enables a more compact design of the surgical device's multi-socket and, consequently, a more compact design of the entire high-frequency generator.

[0025] The invention provides that the center point of the positioning opening is arranged at a distance from a straight line connecting the centers of the coaxial socket, the first contact opening, and the second contact opening. Preferably, the straight line connecting the centers of the coaxial socket, the first contact opening, and / or the second contact opening does not pass through the center point of the positioning opening. Therefore, the positioning opening is preferably not aligned with the electrically active terminals of the surgical device's multi-pin socket. This non-aligned positioning opening has the particular advantage of improving the reliable and unambiguous positioning of a connector.

[0026] The invention provides that the positioning opening is arranged off-center between the first or second contact opening and the coaxial socket. This embodiment therefore provides that the positioning opening is not located on the straight line connecting the centers of the contact opening(s) and the coaxial socket. Furthermore, this embodiment provides that the positioning opening is not located midway between the coaxial socket and the adjacent contact opening, so that the distance to the coaxial socket is greater or lesser than the distance to the nearest contact opening.Perpendicular to the straight line connecting the centers of the coaxial socket, the first contact opening, and / or the second contact opening, this design allows for a very small size of the surgical device's multi-socket, thereby reducing the overall footprint and positively influencing the design of the high-frequency generator. Furthermore, this embodiment offers the advantage of a compact connector.

[0027] According to a further preferred embodiment of the surgical device multi-socket, the first and second contact openings are arranged adjacent to each other. The first and second contact openings are thus arranged such that no further openings or other relevant components of the surgical device multi-socket are located between them. In particular, this embodiment includes the fact that neither the coaxial socket nor, if applicable, the positioning opening is located on a connecting line linking the central axes of the first and second contact openings. Nevertheless, the adjacent arrangement of the contact openings preferably results in both openings remaining integral, so that the walls of the contact openings do not overlap or intersect.

[0028] According to a further particularly preferred embodiment of the surgical device multiple socket, it is provided that a distance between a central axis of the first contact opening and a central axis of the second contact opening is many times smaller than a distance between the central axis of the first contact opening and a central axis of the coaxial socket, and / or a distance between the central axis of the second contact opening and the central axis of the coaxial socket, and / or a distance between a central axis of the positioning opening and the central axis of the coaxial socket.wherein preferably the distance between the central axis of the first contact opening and the central axis of the coaxial socket is greater than the distance between the central axis of the second contact opening and the central axis of the coaxial socket, and further preferably the distance between the central axis of the second contact opening and the central axis of the coaxial socket is greater than the distance between the central axis of the positioning opening and the central axis of the coaxial socket.

[0029] This arrangement results in an area where the coaxial socket is located and a second area where the contact openings are located. While both areas have a comparatively small extent, there is a large distance between these two areas compared to their extent. Furthermore, this arrangement preferably results in the positioning opening being located in or near the area of ​​the first and / or second contact opening and being further away from the coaxial socket. Preferably, the distance between the first contact opening and the coaxial socket represents the greatest distance between any two openings on the surgical device's multi-socket. In addition, in this embodiment, it is preferred that the positioning opening be located between one of the contact openings and the coaxial socket.Furthermore, it may be preferred that the positioning opening is arranged between the area in which the coaxial socket is arranged and the area in which the contact openings are arranged.

[0030] Such an arrangement of the coaxial socket and the contact openings is particularly advantageous because it allows for the connection of various commercially available connectors to the surgical device's multi-socket. Specifically, it is possible to use a connector with two contact pins spaced apart, and furthermore, another connector with two contact pins spaced apart, where the second space is, for example, smaller than the first. Additionally, it is possible to use connectors of the aforementioned designs that also feature a positioning pin, which can be inserted into the positioning opening of the surgical device's multi-socket, thus ensuring the correct positioning of the connector within the device.

[0031] In a further embodiment of the surgical device multi-socket, the distance between the central axis of the first contact opening and the central axis of the second contact opening is a maximum of 10 times the diameter of the first and / or second contact opening. A distance of a maximum of 7.5 times the diameter is particularly preferred, and a distance of a maximum of 5 times the diameter is also preferred. In a further particularly preferred embodiment, the distance between the two contact openings is a maximum of 2 times the diameter of the first and / or second contact opening.

[0032] In another preferred embodiment, the distance between the contact openings is between 6 and 7 mm, preferably 6.58 mm.

[0033] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the surgical device multi-socket, the central axis of the coaxial socket and the central axis of the first contact opening are spaced 28-29 mm apart, preferably 28.58 mm apart. This spacing allows the use of a connector with two contact pins whose central axes are spaced 28 mm to 29 mm apart, preferably 28.58 mm apart. Such connectors are frequently used in electrosurgery, so this embodiment particularly increases the compatibility of a high-frequency generator having such a surgical device multi-socket. The inner coaxial socket opening and its spacing from the first contact opening, in particular, enable the use of a previously described connector.

[0034] Another preferred embodiment of the surgical device multi-socket provides that the central axis of the coaxial socket and the central axis of the second contact opening are spaced 21–23 mm apart, in particular 22 mm apart. Such a spacing of the coaxial socket and the second contact opening allows the use of a connector having two contact pins spaced 21–23 mm apart, in particular 22 mm apart. Such connectors with contact pins exhibiting the aforementioned spacing are also frequently used in electrosurgery.

[0035] This arrangement of the coaxial socket and the second contact opening, as well as the previously described arrangement of the coaxial socket and the first contact opening, demonstrates the flexibility of this surgical instrument multi-socket. The compact arrangement of the coaxial socket and the first and second contact openings allows for the connection of a plug with a pin spacing of 21-23 mm, a plug with a pin spacing of 28-29 mm, and a coaxial plug element to this compact surgical instrument multi-socket. Furthermore, it is clear that the previously described arrangement prevents the simultaneous use of more than one plug and thus the connection of more than one electrosurgical instrument to the surgical instrument multi-socket. This results in significantly improved safety, as incorrect or unintentional multiple connections are prevented.

[0036] According to a further embodiment of the surgical device multi-socket, the coaxial socket has a terminal end into which a coaxial plug element can be inserted, and / or the first contact opening has a terminal end into which a contact pin can be inserted, and / or the second contact opening has a terminal end into which a contact pin can be inserted, and / or the positioning opening has a terminal end into which a positioning pin can be inserted, wherein at least two terminal ends lie in a common plane.

[0037] The connection ends of the contact openings and / or the coaxial socket and / or the positioning opening are to be understood in particular as allowing an element to be inserted or inserted into them. "Lying in a common plane" means, in particular, that the orthogonal lines at the connection end of parallel central axes of the contact openings and / or positioning opening and / or coaxial socket define a two-dimensional geometry or plane. In a preferred embodiment, at least three connection ends are located in a common plane, and alternatively, preferably, all connection ends are located in a common plane. An arrangement of three or more connection ends in a common plane is advantageous because it allows for a particularly compact design of the surgical device's multi-socket.

[0038] According to an unclaimed embodiment, the aforementioned problem is solved by a surgical device multiple socket for a high-frequency generator for connecting an electrosurgical instrument, in particular a monopolar applicator, comprising a coaxial socket configured to receive a coaxial plug element, and a first contact opening configured to receive a contact pin, and a second contact opening configured to receive a contact pin, and a third contact opening configured to receive a contact pin, wherein preferably the centers of the first contact opening, the second contact opening, and the third contact opening are arranged on a straight line, and a fourth contact opening.

[0039] In particular, it is preferred that the first, second, and third contact openings are arranged such that a 3-pin connector, especially a 3-pin connector with a 4 mm contact pin diameter, can be connected to the surgical device's multi-socket via the first, second, and third contact openings by arranging the contact pins of the three-pin connector in the first, second, and third contact openings. This further increases the compatibility of the surgical device's multi-socket by allowing the connection of a 3-pin connector with three contact pins, in addition to single and double connectors with one or two contact pins, as well as the coaxial connector. Furthermore, connecting special connectors, for example for maintenance, is simplified by designing the maintenance connector for a defined contact opening combination.

[0040] In a further preferred embodiment of the surgical device multi-socket, it is provided that the fourth contact opening and one, two or more further contact openings each have a diameter oriented orthogonally to an insertion direction, wherein the one, two or more further contact openings are selected from the group consisting of the first contact opening, the second contact opening, and the third contact opening, wherein the diameter of the fourth contact opening is larger than the diameter(s) of the one, two or more further contact openings, wherein the diameter of the fourth contact opening is preferably between 6 mm and 10 mm, in particular between 7.5 mm and 8.5 mm.

[0041] The fourth contact opening preferably has the largest diameter of the arranged contact openings, particularly compared to the first, second, and third contact openings, with the coaxial socket typically having a larger diameter at its outer circumference. The inclusion of a fourth contact opening allows for a significant increase in compatibility. Consequently, it enables the use of a wide variety of currently relevant connectors in the medical technology sector, whereas sockets known in the prior art do not offer such compatibility. This can lead to a reduction in the total number of sockets on a high-frequency generator and, furthermore, to cost reduction. The reasons for the cost reduction are manifold. Firstly, a smaller total number of sockets may be required, thus reducing the effort involved in manufacturing and assembly.Furthermore, the number of possible high-frequency generator variants is reduced, thus decreasing complexity in both development and sales, and making the process more manageable. Customers no longer have to choose between multiple variants or opt for the more expensive version with a high number of connectors.

[0042] Furthermore, it is preferred that the first contact opening and / or the second contact opening and / or the third contact opening has a diameter of 4 mm with a tolerance typical for relevant connectors, in particular a tolerance of plus 0.1 mm and minus 0.1 mm. In addition, the diameter of the fourth contact opening can be 8 mm, with a tolerance typical for relevant connectors, in particular a tolerance of plus 0.1 mm and minus 0.1 mm.

[0043] A preferred embodiment of the surgical device multi-socket provides that the coaxial socket and / or the fourth contact opening is / are arranged between the second and third contact openings. Specifically, the coaxial socket and / or the fourth contact opening is / are arranged between the second and third contact openings with respect to a connecting line linking the centers of the first, second, and third contact openings. This arrangement between the second and third contact openings allows for the arrangement of a large number of connectors, even though the contact openings and the coaxial socket require only a small area.

[0044] In a further preferred embodiment of the surgical device multi-socket, the coaxial socket and the fourth contact opening are arranged such that a line connecting their centers is orthogonal to a connecting line linking the centers of the first, second, and third contact openings. In the operating state, the coaxial socket and the fourth contact opening are preferably arranged vertically one above the other with respect to their centers, with the first, second, and third contact openings then arranged horizontally next to each other, so that the connecting line linking their centers also runs horizontally.Alternatively, preferably, the coaxial socket and the fourth contact opening are arranged horizontally next to each other in the operating state with respect to their centers, wherein the first contact opening, the second contact opening, and the third contact opening are arranged vertically one above the other, so that the connecting line also runs horizontally connecting their centers.

[0045] As a result of this arrangement, the generator's footprint can be minimized, allowing for a particularly compact design and / or creating space for additional functions and / or functional elements, such as screens or controls. In particular, this also enables or at least simplifies the simultaneous connection of multiple plugs. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the first contact opening is located on the side of the second contact opening facing away from the third. It may also be preferable that the first contact opening is located on the side of the second contact opening facing away from the third.

[0046] Another preferred embodiment provides that the coaxial socket and the fourth contact opening are spaced apart from each other such that a coaxial plug and a contact pin, in particular a Bovie plug, can be arranged simultaneously in the coaxial socket and the fourth contact opening. It is particularly preferred that the centers of the coaxial socket and the fourth contact opening are spaced apart by a distance which is preferably greater than one diameter, or greater than 1.5 times the diameter, or greater than 2 times the diameter, or greater than 2.5 times the diameter, or greater than 3 times the diameter, or greater than 4 times the diameter of the fourth contact opening.

[0047] An advantageous embodiment further provides that the fourth contact opening is arranged in the direction of the straight connecting line above the straight line in the assembled state, connecting the centers of the first contact opening, the second contact opening and the third contact opening.

[0048] Furthermore, it may be preferred that the coaxial socket is arranged in the direction of the straight connecting line below the straight line in the assembled state, connecting the centers of the first contact opening and the second contact opening and the third contact opening.

[0049] According to a further aspect of the invention, the aforementioned problem is solved by an electrosurgical high-frequency generator comprising a multiple surgical device socket according to one of the previously described embodiments. Such an electrosurgical high-frequency generator is characterized, first and foremost, by its compatibility with a wide variety of different electrosurgical instruments.

[0050] This results in a wide selection of different connectors that can be used with the electrosurgical high-frequency generator. These connectors can differ in the spacing of their contact pins and whether or not they include a positioning pin. Furthermore, some connectors may or may not have a coaxial connector element. The wide variety of connectors for electrosurgical instruments necessitates that high-frequency generators be able to accommodate and be compatible with these different connectors.

[0051] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the aforementioned problem is solved by an electrosurgical device connector for insertion into a multi-socket surgical device according to one of the previously described embodiments, comprising a coaxial connector element and at least one contact pin. A particularly preferred electrosurgical device connector is one in which the central axis of the coaxial connector element and the central axis of the contact pin are spaced 22-23 mm apart. Alternatively, it is preferred that the central axis of the coaxial connector element and the central axis of the contact pin are spaced 28-29 mm apart.

[0052] Furthermore, it is preferred that the electrosurgical device connector has a positioning pin which is designed and arranged to be inserted into a positioning opening. Such a connector can reduce or even eliminate various disadvantages of existing connector types, and such a connector has not been used in previous solutions because the connection sockets in electrosurgical high-frequency generators were generally not able to accept a connector that has a coaxial connector element and a contact pin.

[0053] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the aforementioned problem is solved by an electrosurgical system comprising a high-frequency generator according to the embodiment described above and an electrosurgical instrument connected or connectable via the multi-socket connector of the high-frequency generator. Such a system, in addition to its compact design, allows for the flexible use of various electrosurgical instruments from different manufacturers, as well as electrosurgical instruments with different connectors. Furthermore, with the present system, it is not possible to make a faulty connection. Moreover, the user cannot connect more than one electrosurgical instrument to the high-frequency generator simultaneously. This prevents potential damage to the high-frequency generator and / or the electrosurgical system.Preferably, the electrosurgical instrument connected or connectable to the multi-socket surgical device of the high-frequency generator has a previously described electrosurgical device connector.

[0054] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the aforementioned problem is solved by a cable for an electrosurgical instrument, characterized in that the cable is connected to an electrosurgical device connector according to one of the previously described aspects of the invention. The cable is preferably designed as a multi-core assembly of several insulated individual conductors, wherein the individual conductors serve in particular for the transmission of energy, preferably current, and / or for the transmission of information or data. Furthermore, the cable may also include another conductor for the transport of fluids, for example, cooling fluids. The cable is also preferably sheathed with an insulating material, and the cable nevertheless generally has elastic properties, so that the cable is flexible.The connection of the cable to the electrosurgical device connector can be designed to be detachable, for example by means of a plug connection, or non-detachable, especially for a user.

[0055] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the aforementioned problem is solved by an electrosurgical instrument characterized in that the electrosurgical instrument is connected to a cable as described above. A connection at a junction between the cable and the electrosurgical instrument can be designed to be detachable or non-detachable, particularly for the user. A detachable connection between the cable and the electrosurgical instrument has the advantage that, in the event of a defect in the cable or the instrument, only the defective component needs to be replaced, and the intact component can continue to be used.

[0056] A permanent connection is understood to be a connection that is not intended to be disconnected by a user. A permanent connection, especially for the user, has the advantage of preventing or at least hindering unintentional disconnection, particularly during the use of the electrosurgical instrument, thus increasing safety during use, especially during surgical procedures.

[0057] For further advantages, embodiments and design details of these additional aspects and their possible further developments, reference is also made to the previously given description of the corresponding features and further developments of the surgical device multi-socket.

[0058] Preferred embodiments of the invention are explained by way of example with reference to the accompanying figures. These show: Figs. 1a-1d: an embodiment of a surgical instrument multi-socket; Fig. 2: a high-frequency generator with an exemplary surgical instrument multi-socket; Fig. 3: an electrosurgical system with a high-frequency generator and an exemplary surgical instrument multi-socket; Fig. 4: an electrosurgical instrument plug; and Fig. 5: a plug with two contact pins. Fig. 6: a surgical instrument multi-socket known in the art for a Bovie plug; Fig. 7: a surgical instrument multi-socket known in the art for a coaxial plug; Figs. 8a-8d: another embodiment of a surgical instrument multi-socket; Fig. 9: a schematic, three-dimensional view of the Fig. 8a-8d The surgical instrument multi-socket shown with a three-pin connector; Fig. 10: a schematic, three-dimensional view of the [unclear text] Fig. 8a-8dThe surgical instrument multi-socket shown with a Bovie connector; Fig. 11: a schematic, three-dimensional view of the Fig. 8a-8d The surgical device multi-socket shown with a coaxial plug; Fig. 12: a three-pin plug known in the prior art; Fig. 13: a plug with a large contact pin known in the prior art; Fig. 14: a coaxial plug known in the prior art.

[0059] The Figures 1a-1d Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a surgical instrument multiple socket 1. The surgical instrument multiple socket 1 extends from a first end 2 to a second end 3. The surgical instrument multiple socket 1 has a flat oval outer contour with two parallel, opposing flanks and a curved, in particular semicircular, geometry at the first and second ends 2, 3. A coaxial socket 10 is arranged in a section adjacent to the first end 2 of the surgical instrument multiple socket 1.

[0060] The coaxial bushing 10 is formed by two coaxially arranged sleeves. The inner sleeve 11 is substantially enclosed radially by the outer sleeve 13. Furthermore, the inner sleeve 11 has an outer diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the outer sleeve 13. This creates two openings: the space between the outer and inner sleeves 13, 11 and the geometrically determined cavity of the inner sleeve 11. The space between the outer and inner sleeves 13, 11 forms the outer, annular coaxial bushing opening 14, and the space formed inside the inner sleeve 11 forms the inner coaxial bushing opening 12.

[0061] In a section adjacent to the second end 3 of the surgical instrument multi-socket 1, the first contact opening 20 and the second contact opening 30 are arranged. The contact openings 20 and 30 have a circular cross-section perpendicular to the central axis, each with essentially the same diameter as the inner coaxial socket opening 12. The first contact opening 20 and the second contact opening 30 lie on an imaginary connecting line extending from the first end 2 to the second end 3. The first contact opening 20 faces the second end 3, and the second contact opening 30 faces the first end 2, or the coaxial socket 10. The imaginary connecting line linking the first end 2 and the second end 3 conceptually divides the surgical instrument multi-socket 1 into two horizontally separated halves, each with the same dimensions in the vertical direction.The centers of the first contact opening 20, the second contact opening 30 and the coaxial socket 10 lie on this line.

[0062] The surgical device multi-socket 1 also has a positioning opening 40. The positioning opening 40 has a circular cross-section perpendicular to the central axis. Its diameter is smaller than the diameter of the contact openings 20, 30. Furthermore, the positioning opening 40 does not lie on the connecting line that links the centers of the contact openings 30, 40 and the inner coaxial socket 10, so that the positioning opening 40 is also not in alignment with the first and second contact openings 20, 30 and the coaxial socket 10.

[0063] The coaxial socket 10, the contact openings 20, 30, and the positioning opening 40 are essentially recessed in a flat surface of the surgical device multi-socket 1. A terminal end 22 of the first contact opening 20 and a terminal end 32 of the second contact opening 30 are slightly offset into this plane. The terminal opening 42 of the positioning opening 40 and the terminal end 16 of the coaxial socket 10 lie essentially in the same plane as the aforementioned plane of the surgical device multi-socket 1.

[0064] Figure 2 Figure 1 shows a high-frequency generator 50 with a surgical instrument multiple socket 1. The surgical instrument multiple socket 1 of this high-frequency generator 50 also has the previously described coaxial socket 10, the first contact opening 20 and the second contact opening 30. In addition, the surgical instrument multiple socket 1 has the positioning opening 40.

[0065] Figure 3Figure 80 shows an electrosurgical system 80 with a high-frequency generator 50 and a surgical device multi-socket 300 according to the invention, to which a first electrosurgical instrument 61 is connected. The electrosurgical system 80 comprises the high-frequency generator 50 with a further embodiment of the surgical device multi-socket 300 and a first electrosurgical instrument 61. The electrosurgical instrument 61 is connected to the surgical device multi-socket 300 by a connecting cable 65 and a plug (not shown) arranged thereon. The surgical device multi-socket 300 is arranged on the high-frequency generator 50. In addition, a second electrosurgical instrument 62 and a third electrosurgical instrument 63 are available.The electrosurgical instruments 62, 63 each have a plug 60a, 60b, wherein the plugs 60a, 60b are preferably of a different type, for example the distance between the contact pins is different.

[0066] Furthermore, a fourth electrosurgical instrument 64 is shown, which is connected via another connecting cable 65a to an electrosurgical device connector 70. The electrosurgical device connector 70 is in Figure 4 The connection of the fourth electrosurgical instrument 64 to the connecting cable 65a can be implemented as a fixed connection or as a plug connection (not shown), so that the cable 65a and the electrosurgical instrument 64 are preferably provided as separate assemblies.

[0067] Figure 4Figure 70 shows an electrosurgical device connector 70. The electrosurgical device connector 70 comprises a contact pin 210 and a coaxial connector element 110. The coaxial connector element 110 has a circular sleeve, which is thin-walled. A contact pin, which also has a circular cross-section, is arranged coaxially within this sleeve.

[0068] Figure 5 shows a connector with two contact pins 210. Figure 5 Figure 1 schematically shows a commercially available connector 60a for an electrosurgical instrument 62 or for connecting an electrosurgical instrument 62 to a high-frequency generator 50 via a surgical device multi-socket. The connector 60a has two contact pins 210 arranged on a base element. The contact pins 210 each have a longitudinal extension, with a circular cross-section formed orthogonally to the longitudinal extension.

[0069] An electrosurgical instrument with a 60a connector according to Figure 5 is suitable for the high-frequency generator 50 from Figure 2 to be connected. Two different connectors with contact pins 210 can be used. Firstly, one connector can be used whose one contact pin 210 is inserted into the inner coaxial socket opening 12 and whose other contact pin 210 is inserted into the first contact opening 20. Secondly, a connector can be used whose first contact pin 210 is also inserted into the inner coaxial socket opening 12, but whose second contact pin 210 is inserted into the second contact opening 30 of the surgical device multi-socket 1, 300.

[0070] The aforementioned insertion of the contact pins 210 into the openings preferably occurs simultaneously, since the contact pins 210 are fixedly arranged in one plane on a base body of the connector 60a. Because the surgical device multi-socket 1, 300 includes the first and second contact openings, it is possible to use connectors with different distances between the contact pins 210. Furthermore, it is possible to use a connector suitable for a coaxial socket, for example, a coaxial connector element 110.

[0071] In addition to the commercially available connectors, it is also possible to use a special electrosurgical device connector 70, which comprises a coaxial connector element 110 and at least one contact pin 210. Furthermore, it is possible to use a connector comprising a coaxial connector element 110 and two contact pins 210, in which case the spacing of the two contact pins 210 must have the same dimension as the spacing of the two contact openings 20, 30. Finally, it is possible to use a connector comprising one of the aforementioned embodiments, but additionally including a positioning pin, wherein this positioning pin is inserted into the positioning opening 40 of the surgical device multi-socket 1, 300.

[0072] Because different plugs, particularly those differing in the number of contact pins 210, the coaxial plug element 110, and the positioning pin (not shown), can be inserted into the surgical device's multi-socket 1, 300, the user is no longer at risk of inserting a plug into the wrong socket on the high-frequency generator and / or unintentionally connecting or operating incompatible devices simultaneously with the high-frequency generator. Such an incorrect insertion or swapping of a plug into the wrong socket can lead to damage to the device or the patient, especially during the surgical procedure. Therefore, the solution according to the invention optimizes safety during the surgical procedure.

[0073] Furthermore, the large number of compatible connectors means that only one multi-socket surgical instrument connector needs to be integrated into the high-frequency generator 50, instead of a separate socket specifically designed for each connector as before. This, in turn, reduces the space required for the multi-socket surgical instrument connector, allowing for a more compact design of the high-frequency generator. Additionally, electrosurgical instruments from different manufacturers and with different connectors can be used with a single high-frequency generator, thus enabling the cost-effective use of a single generator capable of operating a wide variety of electrosurgical instruments without the need for adapters.

[0074] Figure 6Figure 120 shows a surgical instrument multi-socket for a Bovie connector, known in the prior art. The surgical instrument multi-socket 120 has a first contact opening 124, a second contact opening 126, and a third contact opening 128. The second contact opening 126 is located adjacent to the first contact opening 124, and the third contact opening 128 is located adjacent to the second contact opening 126, with the first contact opening 124 not being adjacent to the third contact opening 128. Furthermore, the contact openings 124, 126, and 128 are arranged in a straight line such that their centers lie on this line. Connecting multiple connectors to the surgical instrument multi-socket 120 is not possible or only possible to a limited extent. Furthermore, the surgical instrument multi-socket 120 is not designed for connecting coaxial connectors.

[0075] Furthermore, the surgical device multi-socket 120 has a large contact opening 122 with a diameter perpendicular to the insertion direction that is twice the diameter of the contact openings 124, 126, 128. The large contact opening 122 is also located between the second contact opening 126 and the third contact opening 128 with respect to one direction of the aforementioned straight line. It can also be seen that the center point of the large contact opening 122 is spaced apart from this straight line. In the installed state of the surgical device multi-socket 120, the center point of the large contact opening 122 is located above the centers of the contact openings 124, 126, 128. In particular, the large contact opening 122 is designed for the connection of Bovie connectors.

[0076] The in Figure 7The surgical device multiple socket 130 shown, which is known in the prior art, has essentially the same structure or arrangement as the surgical device multiple socket 120 in Figure 6The surgical device multi-socket 130 has a first contact opening 134, a second contact opening 136, and a third contact opening 138, which are arranged analogously to the contact openings 124, 126, and 128 of the surgical device multi-socket 120. Instead of the large contact opening 122 of the surgical device multi-socket 120, the surgical device multi-socket 130 shown here has a coaxial socket 132. The center point of the coaxial socket 132 is located essentially in the same position as the center point of the large contact opening 122 on the surgical device multi-socket 120. With the surgical device multi-socket 130, the arrangement of multiple plugs is either not possible or only possible to a limited extent. Furthermore, the surgical device multi-socket 130 is not designed for the connection of Bovie plugs.

[0077] The Figures 8a-8dFigure 400 shows a further embodiment of a surgical device multiple socket according to the invention. The surgical device multiple socket 400 extends in the direction of a width B from a first end 402 to a second end 404. Furthermore, the surgical device multiple socket 400 has a first contact opening 414, a second contact opening 416, and a third contact opening 418. The first contact opening 414 is the one facing the first end. The third contact opening 418, on the other hand, is the contact opening facing the second end 404. The second contact opening 416 is arranged in the direction of the width between the first contact opening 414 and the third contact opening 418.

[0078] The contact openings 414, 416, and 418 each have the same diameter perpendicular to an insertion direction and each also has a center point. The centers of the contact openings 414, 416, and 418 lie on a horizontal line 408 oriented in the direction of width B. With respect to width B, it can be seen that the distance between the first contact opening 414 and the second contact opening 416 is significantly less than the distance between the second contact opening 416 and the third contact opening 418.

[0079] The surgical device multi-socket 400 further comprises a coaxial socket 420 and a fourth contact opening 422. The fourth contact opening 422 has a diameter orthogonal to an insertion direction, which is twice the respective diameter of the contact openings 414, 416, and 418. The coaxial socket 420 and the fourth contact opening 422 each have a center point, the centers of which are arranged on a straight vertical line 410, this vertical line being parallel to a height of the surgical device multi-socket. It can also be seen that the centers of the coaxial socket 420 and the fourth contact opening 422 are located between the second contact opening 416 and the third contact opening 418 with respect to the width B.In particular, the distance between the centers of the coaxial socket 420 and the fourth contact opening 422 and the centers of the second contact opening 416 and the third contact opening 418 is equal. The center of the coaxial socket 420 is located below the horizontal line 408 with respect to its height. The center of the fourth contact opening 422 is located above the horizontal line 408 with respect to its height.

[0080] The Figures 9 to 11 The figures show the use of the surgical device multi-socket 400, with each configuration shown using different plugs 220, 230, and 240. Figure 9The first contact opening 414, the second contact opening 416, and the third contact opening 418 are used to accommodate a three-pin connector 220 with a first contact pin 221, a second contact pin 222, and a third contact pin 223. The three-pin connector 220 with the first contact pin 221, the second contact pin 222, and the third contact pin 223 is shown from another perspective in Figure 12 shown.

[0081] In Figure 10 Figure 400 shows how a plug with a large contact pin, also known as a Bovie plug in the prior art, is arranged on the surgical device multi-socket 400. The plug with the large contact pin 230 is also shown again from a different perspective in Figure 230. Figure 13 shown. Figure 11 Figure 2 shows the use of a coaxial connector on the surgical device multi-socket 400, with the coaxial connector 240 being positioned in the coaxial socket 420. An example of such a coaxial connector is shown in Figure 2. Figure 13shown from a different perspective.

[0082] The Surgical Device Multi-Socket 400 offers numerous advantages over previously known surgical device multi-sockets. The connection options of currently used sockets on surgical devices are integrated into a single, new socket in a previously unknown configuration. This allows the Surgical Device Multi-Socket 400 to provide a more practical, safer, and more cost-effective high-frequency generator overall. For example, the sockets can be arranged to accommodate two or more plugs simultaneously. Thus, two or more plugs can be connected to the Surgical Device Multi-Socket 400. Consequently, only one socket, or if necessary, two sockets, are required for a high-frequency generator, thereby reducing the number of sockets.This results in several advantages regarding the manufacturing of the sockets themselves, and thus significantly lower costs for the manufacturer of high-frequency generators. Furthermore, this arrangement allows the multiple connection options to be positioned in a compact area, saving space on the high-frequency generator and enabling, for example, a particularly compact generator design. Since space is particularly expensive in medical environments, this can further reduce costs. The space saved on the high-frequency generator can also be used, for example, to accommodate additional functional elements, such as screens or control elements. Moreover, this arrangement prevents incorrect connection.As a result, the probability of errors during surgical procedures is reduced, significantly increasing the safety of using an electrosurgical system with a 400 mm multi-socket surgical device. Furthermore, logistical advantages and higher purchasing volumes result in benefits, particularly in terms of cost. Reference sign

[0083] 1, 300, 400 Surgical device multi-socket 2 First end 3 Second end 10 Coaxial socket 11 Inner sleeve 12 Inner coaxial socket opening 13 Outer sleeve 14 Outer coaxial socket opening 16 Coaxial socket connection end 20 First contact opening 22 Connection end first contact opening 30 Second contact opening 32 Connection end second contact opening 40 Positioning opening 42 Connection end positioning opening 50 High-frequency generator 60a, 60b Connector 61 First electrosurgical instrument 62 Second electrosurgical instrument 63 Third electrosurgical instrument 64 Fourth electrosurgical instrument 65,65a Connecting cable 70 Electrosurgical device connector 80 Electrosurgical system 110 Coaxial connector element 120 Surgical device multi-socket 122 Large contact opening 124 First contact opening 126 Second contact opening 128 Third contact opening 130 Surgical device multi-socket 132 Coaxial socket 134 First contact opening 136 Second contact opening 138 Third contact opening 210 Contact pin 220 Three-pin connector 221 First contact pin 222 Second contact pin 223 Third contact pin 230 Large contact pin connector 240 Coaxial connector 402 First end 404 Second end 408 Horizontal line 410 Vertical line 414 First contact opening 416 Second contact opening 418 Third contact opening 420 Coaxial socket 422 Fourth Contact opening B width H height,

Claims

1. A surgical device connector (1, 300) for a high-frequency generator (50) for connecting an electrosurgical instrument (61, 62, 63), in particular a bipolar applicator, comprising - a coaxial socket (10) configured to receive a coaxial plug element (110), and - a first contact opening (20) configured to receive a contact pin (210), and a second contact opening (30) configured to receive a contact pin (210), and - a positioning opening (40) configured to receive a positioning pin, characterized in that - the coaxial socket (10) is configured to receive a coaxial plug element (110) having a contact pin and an outer contact ring, - the coaxial socket (10), the first contact opening (20), and the second contact opening (30) are arranged such that a straight line connects the centers of the coaxial socket (10), the first contact opening (20), and the second contact opening (30), - a center of the positioning opening (40) is arranged at a distance from a straight line connecting the centers of the coaxial socket (10), the first contact opening (20), and the second contact opening (30), and - the positioning opening (40) is arranged eccentrically between the first or second contact opening (20, 30) and the coaxial socket (10).

2. A surgical device multi-port connector (1, 300) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second contact ports (20, 30) are arranged adjacent to one another.

3. A surgical device multi-port connector (1, 300) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a distance between a central axis of the first contact opening (20) and a central axis of the second contact opening (30) is a multiple smaller than - a distance between the central axis of the first contact opening (20) and a central axis of the coaxial socket (10), and / or - a distance between the central axis of the second contact opening (30) and the central axis of the coaxial socket (10), and / or - a distance between a central axis of the positioning opening (40) and the central axis of the coaxial socket (10), wherein, preferably, the distance between the centerline of the first contact opening (20) and the centerline of the coaxial socket (10) is greater than the distance between the centerline of the second contact opening (30) and the centerline of the coaxial socket (10), and furthermore, preferably, the distance between the central axis of the second contact opening (30) and the central axis of the coaxial socket (10) is greater than the distance between the central axis of the positioning opening (40) and the central axis of the coaxial socket (10).

4. A multi-port surgical device connector (1, 300) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distance between the central axis of the first contact opening (20) and the central axis of the second contact opening (30) is at most five times the diameter of the first and / or second contact opening (20, 30), and / or characterized in that the central axis of the coaxial socket (10) and the central axis of the first contact opening (20) are spaced 28-29 mm, in particular 28.58 mm, apart, and / or characterized in that the central axis of the coaxial socket (10) and the central axis of the second contact opening (30) are spaced 21-23 mm, in particular 22 mm, apart.

5. A multi-contact surgical device connector (1, 300) according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coaxial socket (10) has a connection end (16) into which a coaxial plug element (110) can be inserted, and / or the first contact opening (20) has a connection end (22) into which a contact pin (210) can be inserted, and / or the second contact opening (30) has a connection end (32) into which a contact pin (210) can be inserted, and / or the positioning opening (40) has a connection end (42) into which a positioning pin can be inserted, wherein at least two connection ends lie in a common plane.

6. A high-frequency electrosurgical generator (50) comprising - a surgical device multi-socket (1, 300) according to at least one of the preceding claims 1-5.

7. An electrosurgical device plug for insertion into a multiple surgical device socket (1, 300) according to at least one of the preceding claims 1-5, comprising - a coaxial plug element (110) having an inner contact pin and an outer contact ring, and - at least one contact pin (210).

8. An electrosurgical system comprising - a radiofrequency generator (50) according to claim 6, and - an electrosurgical instrument connected or connectable via the electrosurgical device multi-connector (1, 300, 400) of the high-frequency generator.

9. Cable (65a) for an electrosurgical instrument (64), characterized in that the cable is equipped with an electrosurgical device connector (70) according to claim 7.

10. An electrosurgical instrument (64), characterized in that the electrosurgical instrument is equipped with a cable (65a) according to claim 9.